It's been a week, who has had the biggest impact?

Luckybreak wrote:Based on what I perceived to be the Pens greatest playoff weakness (highlighted by the Philly series) I voted for Murray. He's exactly what was needed and has exceeded my expectations by adapting to the system whilst covering for the Letang and Martin injuries. We know what we've got and I hope he is re-signed.

Jussi's faceoff domination is more key than the points he's scored, though I think he has had more personal motivation and perhaps more to prove than Morrow or Iginla given his passage through waivers. He adds outstanding depth for the Cup run but doubt he stays on the team given the cap and hints that Iggy *might* want to stay.

I have no doubt that Morrow's physical play will wreak havoc over 7 games, though I maintain he'd be more effective as Geno's LW with Neal playing the 'shooter' role.

Finally there's Iginla who, at least statistically, had the smallest impact. Personally I don't think Bylsma did the right thing bumping Morrow, trying to get Iggy to play LW then forcing Neal to the LW. A new system, new position, then familiar position with a struggling center and displaced winger are not a recipe for success. Kunitz will stabilise the line but what will happen when Sid and Neal return from their respective injuries? Most importantly I want to see Iginla raise the Cup more than any other Pen (new or old).

I agree with every syllable of this post. Finding the correct chemistry among the overwhelming talent and significant role players appears to be the biggest challenge and mystery for the remainder of this season and into the playoffs.

The chemistry challenge is an exciting one to have - I know certain players (eg Dupuis, Jokinen) can fit virtually anywhere, but others (Neal, Iginla) have to be comfortable to really get the most out of them - I hope they have enough time post injury to get into a good rhythm (and that Bylsma can maximise their success in the lineup, something I'm uncertain on so far).

It's odd to think or type here but the injuries may actually help to clarify things for HCDB.

I voted for Murray because he is noticeable every game. Morrow has done exactly as/what I expected him to as well. Jussi, well, I never really liked him much to begin with, but if he plays like this for the rest of this year and all of next then YES YES YES.

Iggy.. something isn't working. Hopefully things get sorted out within the next 2 weeks. I expected more impact and big things from him.

I'll take an inconsistent forward who can win faceoffs and kill penalties over an inconsistent forward who can't do either. Jokinen makes TK expendable on the 3rd line next season, which is fine since him and Sutter never really clicked.

Iggy is really tough to rate i don't think he meshes all that well with geno's style. Especially with malkin in a slump last few games have looked better for him. 5/10 since last night.Murray has filled a presence when have been lacking so definitely the biggest impact. He is a bottom 3 pairing and PK ideally. 6/6Morrow is having a tough time adjusting to our up tempo game but makes solid intelligent plays every night. Goal vs Car & made Jokinen's goal last night 5/8Jokinen is a suprise. top 9 forward playing top 6 making the most of it. 6/6

Iginlas been solid just not putting points up, but with that hes doing alot of little things. You can tell morrow is getting comfy. Hes been looking better and better. Jokinen is just what we need. Speedy 2 way guy good in the circle. Murray is just what we needed. Slow but anticipates play so well he rarely beaten. If he is his reach is huge. Tank on skates!!!! Shero has done it again folkes!

Iginla is hardly terrible... but he has been overshadowed by Morrow and Jokinen the past few games. If we can get him some consistent linemates (preferably Sid or Geno), I have faith that he will produce as well.